Stephen Cave's book Immortality shows how the quest to live forever has driven the development of human civilisation, and how that quest is now coming to a climax through modern science. He argues that humans are hardwired to pursue eternal life - and that the way they have done so has stayed remarkably consistent through the ages. Unlike most books on this hugely popular subject, Immortality does not argue from a particular religious viewpoint. It shows general readers how the latest research in fields from anti-aging to neuroscience is providing new answers to life's most important question. Stephen Cave is in discussion with philosophy writer Julian Baggini and Havi Carel, author of Illness.

Before dedicating himself to writing, Stephen Cave (right) worked for the British Foreign Office, negotiating international treaties on behalf of Her Majesty. Stephen has since written well-received essays, features and reviews on many philosophical, ethical and scientific subjects, from human nature to robot warriors and animal rights. His work has appeared in many newspapers and magazines, including the New York Times and Financial Times. Immortality is his first book. Visit his website at www.stephencave.com.

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